Introduction
Newly formed company Portal Audio recently introduced their first
offering, the “Panache,” a no-frills integrated amplifier with
aspirations of offering high-end performance at a reasonable cost. Its
main objective is to provide a platform for a simple audio-only system,
one which will require minimal processing or switching of limited audio
inputs and outputs. The Panache is priced at $1795 and is currently
available via Internet direct. Portal Audio offers a 60-day risk-free
trial period, taking advantage of a growing Internet model, allowing
potential buyers to audition the unit in their own systems to ensure
that their needs and expectations are met.

The Panache incorporates a passive line stage with a high gain dual
mono Class A/AB amplifier in an attractive, somewhat minimalist
package. The passive line section consists only of an input selector
that routes the incoming signal through Alps volume and balance
controls. The Amplifier section is rated at 100 watts per channel at
eight ohms and 200 watts per channel at four ohms. Portal Audio
specifies the unit as a dual mono design after the (separate) winding
of the 425 VA toroidal transformer. Each channel has 40,000 mFd of
power supply filtration, four pairs of high-speed bipolar output
transistors rated at 100 watts and 12 amps per device.

As for appearance, the Panache’s front panel has a very clean, Spartan
look. There’s an input selector that controls the four inputs, volume
and balance controls, a "phones” jack for the use of headphones, and a
power switch. The back connectivity is equally simple with four pairs
of inputs, one record output and a detachable power cord. This
relatively compact unit weighs in at 32 lbs. and measures17 inches
wide, 12 inches deep and 4.5 inches tall, including the feet. During my
evaluation, the Panache ran at fairly cool temperature, basically warm
to the touch. This is in part due to the ample cooling fins located on
both sides of the unit.

Portal Audio has sought to provide a component that would satisfy a
number of consumers who find themselves in need of electronics that
simply perform the task of switching an input source (such as a CD
player, tuner, etc.) and amplifying this signal without adding any
unwanted complexity or unnecessary circuitry. The Panache and its use
of a passive line stage was designed to pass incoming signals through
as few electronic parts as possible, with a goal of achieving the
highest level of musical transparency while minimizing any potential
artifacts or coloration to the original source.

One of the added features of Panache was its inclusion of an excellent
headphone section. Portal Audio intended this to be a strong
performance attribute and they have succeeded. I was able to compare
the Panache headphone section to the Headroom Supreme Headphone
Amplifier using the Sennhessier HD 600 and Grado RS 2 headphones. Both
units were able to drive each of the headphones with ease, even at
reference-plus volumes. The Panache had slightly better punch, inner
detail dynamics and exhibited greater low-end impact and weight. It was
very easy to pick out individual instruments and follow them on the
Panache.